Dave Senecal is not just a physical education specialist; he is a trailblazer in the field, leaving an indelible mark on the educational landscape of Paulding County since 1997. A graduate of Kennesaw State University with a bachelor’s degree in physical education and later earning a master’s degree in Physical Education Curriculum and Instruction from Western Kentucky University, Dave’s educational journey has been a testament to his commitment to excellence.

In 2012, Dave’s passion for shaping young minds led him to open Nebo Elementary School, where he not only established a well-respected program but also earned the prestigious Teacher of the Year award in 2012. Always up for a challenge, Dave pursued a new opportunity in 2012 by opening P.B. Ritch Middle School in Paulding County. There, he has not only built an award-winning program but also secured the title of Teacher of the Year in 2015.

Dave’s dedication to physical education has not gone unnoticed on a broader scale. In 2015, he was honored as the GAHPERD and Southern District SHAPE Middle School Teacher of the Year, solidifying his impact beyond county lines. His commitment to professional development is evident through his role as the volunteer elementary and middle physical education professional development coordinator for his district.

Not content with just excelling in the educational realm, Dave has actively contributed to shaping the landscape of physical education standards. In 2008, he was selected to be part of a team of sixteen physical education specialists to write the current Georgia Physical Education Standards. Additionally, his involvement in the Paulding County Wellness Committee showcases his dedication to promoting a holistic approach to well-being.

Beyond his roles in education, Dave has been a force in recreational and outdoor activities. Serving as the recreation chair and VP of GAHPERD, he received the 2010 GAHPERD Recreation Specialist of the Year award. His influence extends to the realm of mountain biking, where he served on the executive board of the Southern Off-road Bicycle Association (SORBA) and as the president of the non-profit mountain bike club Paulding SORBA for six years.

Dave’s impact isn’t confined to the educational and recreational spheres; he is also a catalyst for change in the community. Instrumental in the design and installation of over 20 miles of recreational trails in and around west Georgia, Dave’s contributions have enriched the lives of countless individuals.

His passion for broadening horizons is evident in his success securing multiple grants, enabling middle school students to explore activities like rugby, disc golf, longboarding, circus arts, fly fishing, low ropes, and mountain biking. A recognized national consultant, Dave has shared his expertise at workshops across the country, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of physical education.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Dave and his wife own a dance school that serves over 300 students weekly, showcasing his versatility and commitment to fostering a love for movement in various forms. In his spare time, Dave’s interests span a wide spectrum, from road cycling and mountain biking to wilderness survival and inventing – a true renaissance educator dedicated to shaping minds both in and out of the classroom.